As days go by and the years go on, I have increasingly noticed people ask the same, notorious question along the lines of, "Where's the time gone?" This is an interesting thought, yet can't really be answered. This doesn't mean you should stop asking questions. This should only be the beginning.
The five Ws (who, what, where, when and why) are the beginning premise of the potential endless questions. The five Ws are basic tools used by researchers, journalist, police officers and other various professionals to get the "full" story. Applying these questions to oneself can open your mind to new, life-changing realizations.
In today's world it's easy to get caught up and lost in everyday activities such as work and school, and that's exactly why these questions are so important. Life is comprised of choices, and we are all exist to live. Regardless of any views or beliefs, it is essential to step back and reflect on the big picture of your life to ensure you are living it to the fullest, regret free.
The following questions may be vague or ambiguous, but they are open to interpretation by each individual. These questions can be used as guidelines to help get you thinking.
Who are you?
You can start with the basics such as a mother, father, friend and your profession, but think about who you really are to these people even. For example, my dad is a father of five, a son and a carpet installer to name a few, but that doesn't really give you a picture of who my dad is; he is a dedicated, hardworking carpet installer and the most passionate, loving father I know. It's important to analyze who you are not only to yourself, but who you are to the people around in your everyday life.
What are you doing?
If you're anything like me, you're constantly running around with your head cut off and feel like you are doing a million different things. Bottom line, what are you accomplishing by doing all the little things you do? It's easy to get side tracked and caught up with the everyday hustle and bustle, but time doesn't stop. If you have long-term goals and ambitions, reflection on things you are doing could end up saving you a bunch of lost time and frustration.
Where are you?
Where are you from? Where do you spend most of your time? Where would you like to go? Where have you gone? There are numerous questions that can be associated with "where." It's up to you to weigh out how important each question applies to you personally.
When?
When are you going to start living the life of your dreams? After you graduate college, after a big promotion, once you retire... Think about what it is that you really want to do, make a list of limiting factors and then work to breakdown those limitations.
Why are you the way you are?
When asking yourself the questions above, always keep in consideration "why." Why do you do the things you do? Why do you live where you live? Why have you gone to places you've been to, and why do you want to go to certain places in the future?
How do you live your life?
Do you live your life one day at a time, happily or in fear? You have the power to control how you live your life through your attitude and decisions. Realize that, and help make the world become a better place.
Originally published on Nov. 13, 2011.
